Excessive alcohol consumption is still a challenge to the wellbeing of the country’s population.

The deputy permanent secretary in the Office of the President, Colonel Duke Masilo, made the comments during a health awareness campaign in Gabane on April 17.

He said excessive alcohol consumption contributed to the statistics of people infected by HIVAIDS as well as those defaulting treatment of the virus and Tuberculosis (TB). Furthermore, he regretted that excessive alcohol consumption was high among the youth population but also regretted that there were parents who continued to drink excessively.

Colonel Masilo added that it was regrettable that parents who could be setting good examples for the youth are also taking part in the behaviour. He encouraged people to do their best to guard against contracting HIVAIDS, TB and to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Furthermore, Colonel Masilo expressed disappointment that the Gabane community did not attend the event in large numbers although it was addressing issues pertinent to their wellbeing. He also regretted that the numbers of people testing for both HIVAIDS and TB have been declining in the village over the two years.

Nonetheless, colonel Masilo encouraged the organisers of the day not to be discouraged but rather continue to raise awareness.

For his part, Kgosi Sello Pule of Gabane said it is important that community members are activate on issues concerning their health, regretting that the Gabane community is not active on issues of health awareness. He encouraged those in attendance to commit to reducing alcohol consumption.

Ms Kealeboga Motseotsile of Gabane Health Post said the event was a campaign to raise public awareness on issues of alcohol abuse, HIVAIDS and TB.

Ms Motseotsile added that the campaign started in the beginning of March where they targeted primary and junior school as well as conducting house to house public education campaigns.

The day event included among others HIVAIDS testing, TB screening and alcohol abuse sensitisation.